Metropolitan Police conclude investigation into election gambling scandal with no charges filed

23 August 2024 , 13:52

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Craig Williams, right, former parliamentary aide to Rishi Sunak, left, had been caught up in the Gambling Commission inquiry. Photograph: Welsh Conservatives

Force ends investigation into bets on 4 July election date and says bar to prove misconduct in public office has not been met

Met police end probe into election gambling scandal with no charges made

The Metropolitan police has ended its involvement in the criminal investigation into the placing of bets on the date of the general election.

The force previously said it was probing whether a “small number” of bets on the 4 July poll had involved more serious offences including misconduct in public office.

A number of Conservatives have been caught up in the Gambling Commission inquiry, including Rishi Sunak’s former parliamentary aide, Craig Williams.

But the Met said after a review of evidence with the CPS that “it was determined that the high bar for misconduct in public office to be proven was not met”.

The investigation by the Gambling Commission into whether offences were committed under the Gambling Act continues.

In a statement, Det Supt Katherine Goodwin said:

These allegations caused a significant dent in public confidence during the election campaign and it was right that they were investigated to explore all possible offences.

While our involvement in the criminal investigation now ceases, it’s important that is not misinterpreted as an all clear for those whose cases were looked at. There are still Gambling Act offences to consider and it is appropriate that they are taken forward by investigators from the Gambling Commission who have particular expertise in this field.

Seven police officers who are alleged to have placed bets are still among those being investigated by the Gambling Commission. They also remain under investigation by the Met’s Directorate of Professional Standards.

James Smith